Unlike Real Madrid, Barcelona Remain Alive in Copa del Rey (Character count: 54 - safely within limit)

Barcelona keeps hope alive in the Copa del Rey, unlike their eternal rivals Real Madrid who were eliminated by a second-tier club. Barca secured a spot in the Quarter Finals after defeating Racing Santander in the Round of 16.

The 2-0 victory at El Sardinero Stadium, Santander, on Friday, January 16, 2026 WIB, maintains Blaugrana's chance to win the trophy.

Goals from Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal sent Barcelona to the quarter-finals scheduled for 3–5 February, with the draw set for January 19.

This match demonstrated the patience of Hansi Flick's squad who worked hard before finally breaking the deadlock in the second half.

Barcelona dominated the match. Dani Olmo had an opportunity, but the ball went wide of Racing's goal. Pressure continued when Marc Bernal received a pass from Lamine Yamal, but his shot went wide to the left side of the goal.

Marcus Rashford also had a chance, but was denied by Racing's goalkeeper Jokon Ezkieta. 

Amid Barcelona's dominance, Racing threatened just before halftime. Mario Garcia's cross was headed by Giorgi Guliashvili, but the ball sailed over Barcelona's crossbar.

Entering the second half, Barcelona increased their attacking intensity. Rashford and Lamine Yamal both had chances early in the second half, though neither resulted in a goal.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 66th minute. Capitalizing on Fermin Lopez's pass, Ferran Torres put Barcelona ahead 1-0. Racing scored an equalizer 11 minutes later, but Manex Lozano's goal was disallowed for offside.

Barcelona sealed the victory in the 90th+5 minute. Raphinha's cross was met by Lamine Yamal's header to secure the 2-0 win and confirm their quarter-final ticket.